How to fix Wi-Fi not working on Windows

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To fix Wi-Fi not working on Windows, start by checking your network settings and ensuring that your Wi-Fi is enabled. If issues persist, try resetting your network adapter or updating your drivers.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you start troubleshooting Wi-Fi issues on Windows, ensure you have the following:
  • •Windows 10 or Windows 11 installed on your device.
  • •Administrator access to make changes to system settings.
  • •An active internet connection through Ethernet or mobile data for downloading drivers or updates.
  • •Backup important data to avoid loss during troubleshooting.

Method 1: Using Windows Network Troubleshooter

This method is useful when you want to quickly diagnose and fix common network problems automatically.
  • •Step 1: Right-click on the network icon in the system tray (bottom right corner) and select 'Troubleshoot problems'.
  • •Step 2: Follow the on-screen instructions provided by the troubleshooter. It will attempt to identify and fix the issue.
  • •Step 3: Once the troubleshooter completes, check if the Wi-Fi is working. You should see a notification indicating whether the problem was fixed.
  • •Step 4: If the issue persists, note any error messages provided by the troubleshooter for further investigation.

For Windows 11

In Windows 11, the Network Troubleshooter can be accessed through Settings.
  • •Open Settings by pressing 'Windows + I'.
  • •Navigate to 'System' > 'Troubleshoot' > 'Other troubleshooters'.
  • •Find 'Network Adapter' and click 'Run' to start the troubleshooter.

For Windows 10

In Windows 10, the Network Troubleshooter is also available in the Settings menu.
  • •Open Settings by pressing 'Windows + I'.
  • •Go to 'Update & Security' > 'Troubleshoot' > 'Additional troubleshooters'.
  • •Select 'Network Adapter' and click 'Run the troubleshooter'.

Method 2: Resetting Network Adapter

Resetting your network adapter can resolve issues caused by misconfigured settings.
  • •Step 1: Open the Start menu and type 'cmd', then right-click on 'Command Prompt' and select 'Run as administrator'.
  • •Step 2: In the Command Prompt window, type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
  • • - netsh int ip reset
  • • - netsh winsock reset
  • • - ipconfig /release
  • • - ipconfig /renew
  • • - ipconfig /flushdns
  • •Step 3: Restart your computer to apply the changes.
  • •Step 4: Check if the Wi-Fi connection is restored.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the above methods do not resolve your Wi-Fi issues, consider the following common problems and their solutions:
  • •Error: 'Wi-Fi doesn't have a valid IP configuration' - Solution: Run 'ipconfig /release' and 'ipconfig /renew' in Command Prompt.
  • •Issue: Wi-Fi network not showing up - Fix: Ensure your Wi-Fi is turned on and airplane mode is disabled. Check the physical switch on your laptop if available.
  • •Problem: Slow Wi-Fi connection - Workaround: Change your Wi-Fi channel in your router settings or move closer to the router.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For users familiar with Windows, these tips can help streamline the troubleshooting process:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: 'Windows + R' - Opens the Run dialog where you can type 'ncpa.cpl' to quickly access Network Connections.
  • •Command line: 'netsh wlan show profiles' - Displays all saved Wi-Fi networks on your device.
  • •Hidden feature: 'Network Reset' - Go to 'Settings' > 'Network & Internet' > 'Status' > 'Network reset' to reset all network adapters.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Regular maintenance of your network settings and drivers can prevent Wi-Fi issues from arising.